Chinese Vegetarian Instant Pot Recipes for Easy Meals

Exploring the world of Chinese vegetarian cuisine has never been easier or more delicious thanks to the Instant Pot. This versatile kitchen gadget allows you to whip up authentic, flavorful dishes in a fraction of the time it normally takes.

Whether you’re a dedicated vegetarian, vegan, or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine, Chinese vegetarian Instant Pot recipes offer a fantastic way to enjoy rich, savory flavors without the hassle.

In this post, we’ll dive into three mouth-watering recipes that highlight the best of Chinese vegetarian cooking, all made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. From vibrant vegetable stir-fries to comforting tofu and mushroom stews, these recipes are packed with umami, nutrients, and a perfect balance of textures.

Plus, they’re easy to customize to your taste and diet preferences. Get ready to impress your family and friends with quick, wholesome, and utterly satisfying meals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chinese vegetarian Instant Pot recipes combine the best of two worlds: the rich, aromatic flavors of Chinese cuisine and the convenience of modern pressure cooking. These recipes:

• Save time with fast cooking that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
• Use fresh, wholesome ingredients to keep meals healthy and satisfying.
• Are highly adaptable—perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone wanting a plant-based meal.
• Offer complex, layered flavors thanks to authentic Chinese seasonings and cooking techniques.
• Make meal prep and cleanup a breeze, thanks to the one-pot cooking method.

Ingredients

For Vegetarian Kung Pao Tofu

• 14 oz firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red and green)
• 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, finely grated
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to preference)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, sliced

For Buddha’s Delight (Vegetarian Stir-Fry)

• 1 cup napa cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup snow peas
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1/2 cup bamboo shoots, drained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

For Chinese Mushroom and Tofu Soup

• 8 oz firm tofu, cubed
• 1 cup king oyster mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Equipment

• Instant Pot or any electric pressure cooker
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Colander or tofu press (for pressing tofu)

Instructions

Vegetarian Kung Pao Tofu

1. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut into 1-inch cubes.
2. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and heat the vegetable oil. Add tofu cubes and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove tofu and set aside.
3. Add garlic and ginger to the pot, sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add diced bell peppers and sauté for 2 minutes to soften slightly.
5. Mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and chili flakes in a small bowl. Pour into the pot and stir well.
6. Return tofu to the pot and toss to coat with the sauce.
7. Pour in cornstarch slurry and stir gently until sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
8. Turn off ‘Sauté’ mode. Stir in roasted peanuts and green onions before serving.

Buddha’s Delight (Vegetarian Stir-Fry)

1. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ and heat sesame oil. Add garlic and ginger, cook until fragrant.
2. Add napa cabbage, shiitake mushrooms, snow peas, carrot, and bamboo shoots. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and soy sauce, stir well.
4. Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 2 minutes.
5. Perform a quick release when cooking is done.
6. Mix cornstarch slurry and stir into the vegetables to thicken the sauce slightly.
7. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

Chinese Mushroom and Tofu Soup

1. Set Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ and heat sesame oil. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add mushrooms and cook for 3 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Add cubed tofu, vegetable broth, soy sauce, and white pepper.
4. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 5 minutes.
5. Perform a quick release. Stir soup gently.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For extra depth, try adding a splash of Chinese cooking wine or a few drops of toasted sesame oil at the end of cooking.”

• Tofu texture: For a firmer bite, bake tofu cubes at 375°F for 15 minutes before adding to the Instant Pot.
• Vegetable swaps: Use bok choy, broccoli, or baby corn in place of some vegetables to mix up flavors.
• Spice level: Adjust chili flakes or add fresh chopped chilies to suit your heat preference.
• Protein options: Substitute tofu with tempeh or seitan if preferred.
• Meal prep: These dishes keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and freeze beautifully for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These Chinese vegetarian Instant Pot dishes pair wonderfully with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauces. You can also serve them alongside stir-fried noodles or vegetable fried rice for a heartier meal.

For a complete meal, consider adding a light appetizer such as Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe or a refreshing cucumber salad. And don’t forget dessert!

Try something indulgent like the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe to round out your Chinese-themed feast.

Conclusion

Chinese vegetarian Instant Pot recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy flavorful, wholesome meals with minimal effort. These dishes bring traditional Chinese ingredients and seasonings to your table in a convenient, fast-cooking format perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

From the spicy and nutty Kung Pao Tofu to the comforting mushroom soup, these recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of plant-based Chinese cooking. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite vegetables and seasonings to make these recipes your own.

For more inspiration on easy, tasty meals, check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe. Happy cooking!

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